Messages - Bass

are you sure they are metallic? If so, I agree that pyrite is the best guess for gold colored flakes. silver colored could be specular hematite. One simple test to try to scratch them with a knife to determine hardness and to see if they leave a colored streak. Both minerals range from 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, which is about the same hardness as a knife blade.If not metallic, several of the mica minerals can shine brightly like gold/silver, including sericite, phlogopite and biotite.

All of the Cascade volcanoes, including the "inland" volcanoes, are considered active with potential to erupt. Check the USGS CVO (Cascades Volcano Observatory) website for more information https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/observatories/cvo/cascade_volcanoes.html [Links inactive - To make links active and clickable, login or click here to register]Almost all of the Cascade volcanoes have erupted within the past 4000 years (which is an extremely short geologic time span). There has been very recent activity, including earthquakes and/or ground movements at Ranier, Hood. South Sister, Baker, and Mt. St. Helens.

My nephew went back to pick up his undergraduate degree in geology a couple of years ago at age 40. He was successful in the finance industry, but hated his job. He'll graduate next year with a degree in Geology and in GIS. He's survived on grants, scholarships and student loans. I've been trying to mentor him and have even been able to find him a couple of summer jobs to help keep him afloat. Really proud of him for his efforts!My sister tells me "You've ruint him!" - but he has a real knack for geology and absolutely loves what he's doing now. He's looking at Grad programs and is inclined towards working in the oil industry (which just goes to show what little influence I've had). Actually, his timing may be perfect- if oil rebounds in a couple of years he'll get plenty of job offers.I love volcanology, and considered working in that field, but was lured away by the siren song of mineral exploration. My advice- find what interests you most, love your work, and you'll be successful!Welcome to the Forum!!!